Handgun and Drugs Seized in Spring Valley Street Bust

On the morning of July 31, 2025, at approximately 9:04 AM, a patrol officer with the Spring Valley Police Department observed what appeared to be a hand-to-hand drug transaction between a male and a female in the area of North Main Street and Dr. Berg.

Patrol officers conducted a stop of both individuals for further investigation. During the encounter, the male subject was found to be in possession of a 9mm handgun and illegal narcotics. The female subject was also found to be in possession of illegal narcotics. Both individuals were taken into custody and later charged.

The male suspect was identified as 42-year-old Spring Valley resident Lester Watkins. Mr. Watkins was arrested and is being charged federally  and will be held pending arraignment.

The female suspect was identified as 19-year-old Spring Valley resident Miledy Bautista-Rivera. Ms. Bautista-Rivera was arrested and charged with PL 220.03 Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree (Class A misdemeanor). Ms. Bautista-Rivera was released on a desk appearance ticket pending a future court date.